Château Rauzan-Gassies 2024

The complexity and refinement of a Second Grand Cru Classé from Margaux

The property

Founded in the 17th century by Pierre Desmezures de Rauzan, Château Rauzan-Gassies is a prestigious vineyard located in Margaux, in the Bordeaux region. Classified as a 2nd Grand Cru in 1855, the vineyard spans 30 hectares of gravelly soils, producing wines of great aromatic complexity. Since 1946, the Quié family, with Jean-Philippe Quié at its head, has perpetuated the tradition by combining ancestral know-how and oenological innovation. Distinguished as a "Living Heritage Company" since April 2024, this historic estate asserts its unique identity.

The vineyard

Located in the heart of the Margaux appellation, the Château Rauzan-Gassies vineyard spans 28 hectares. The soils, composed of deep gravels and sandy gravels, give the wines their distinctive character. Averaging 35 years old, the vineyard has been certified High Environmental Value since 2020, reflecting the estate's commitment to quality and ecology.

The vintage

The 2024 vintage was marked by an oceanic influence and a significant presence of mildew. Despite reduced yields, the climatic conditions favored a beautiful concentration of the grapes. The harvest took place from September 24 to 28 for the merlot and from October 2 to 7 for the cabernet sauvignon, allowing for optimal maturity under favorable weather conditions.

Vinification and aging

Vinification in stainless steel tanks of various capacities (12 hl to 120 hl) with fermentation temperatures maintained between 26 and 28°C. Two to three pump-overs are performed daily during the 8 days of alcoholic fermentation, followed by 15 days of malolactic fermentation. The maceration times are 20 days for the merlot and 19 days for the cabernet sauvignon. Aging continues for 18 months in French oak barrels, 55% of which are new.

Blend

The blend of Château Rauzan-Gassies 2024 includes 73% cabernet sauvignon and 27% merlot, with 14.5% press wine.